Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier stated that upholding a commitment to democracy is particularly vital in today’s world. Speaking at a memorial ceremony at Buchenwald, marking the victims of the November Pogrom in 1938, Steinmeier emphasized that committing to democracy, freedom, the rule of law, and human dignity is not a routine practice, but rather a necessity that is “less true than ever” in the current era. He described this dedication as holding “great, indispensable significance,” calling it a sacred vow to “not gloss over, not to be silent, and never to yield when people in our midst are threatened.”
Steinmeier noted that looking back into history allows us to more keenly see the dangers of today and the future, and it helps us recognize our historical duties. He issued a strong demand that Germany must confront antisemitism, regardless of where it originates-whether from political extremism on the right or the left, from the mainstream of society, or from Islamism. In his view, it is a universal obligation for all people to stand up against antisemitism, racism, and all forms of hatred, and it is a duty that must be addressed right now.
The President also voiced his deep distress and anger over the current situation, stating that the fact Jewish people are being insulted, threatened, or physically attacked on streets and squares across Germany, coupled with the rise of antisemitic crimes to record levels, makes him deeply troubled.
